All the things it wasn't

It wasn't the furthest I have ever run....that would be 15 miles. It wasn't the fastest I have ever run...that would be a sub-10 minute mile over I think 5 miles with some of those being in the 8 minute range. And it certainly wasn't the easiest I have ever run...that would be when I was in some sort of decent, non-avocado shape. But the run tonight still stands out as a distinct accomplishment.
Clocking in at a very respectable 7.2 miles, I started the run at 10:05 and returned at 11:35 for a total time of almost exactly 1-1/2 hours. So 90 minutes, 7.2 miles, just thinking aloud here...that is about a 12-1/2 minute mile, and that I am pretty pleased with over such a long distance. Extended out it would easily give me a sub-6 hour marathon if I carry that little hobby out.
But the real reason I was happy with the run is the consistency. Typically on any given run, including some of the shorter runs of 35 minutes or so, I tend to run too quickly and at some point have to walk for a bit. Not tonight. My pacing was excellent and I did no walking whatsoever for the entire distance. It was a slow, steady run with no "rest" moments or laps.
There were moments it was tough and I really wanted to quit, but somehow, some way, I dug deep, found the strength and made my goal.
What a weird week it was, too. Wednesday I was so discouraged by the Spanish I doubted I had the mental capacity to finish the term, the class, or Spanish 203. That night when I got home the only keepable piece of mail was my letter from PSU congratulating me for being on the Dean's List yet again for the previous term. So one huge struggle, two very positive accomplishments for the week. Overall, the balance sheet is on the good side I am thinking.
My feet and legs would argue otherwise....
Still, I figure by posting this up here, some time when I am discouraged about my lack of progress, real or perceived, I can point myself back here and remember that once upon a time I overcame sore feet, a cd player that had the batteries die, straining lungs, and hatred for running to hit my goal of 7.2 without stopping. For now, I think I will just relax in bed.